Review Summary: Pete Murray uses his experience to craft the most mature and honest record of his career.
Pete Murray is an Australian singer/songwriter from Brisbane, Queensland and is one of Australia’s most recognisable musical talents. His 3 previous records all showed glimpses of his talent, but with his 4th LP Blue Sky Blue he showcases a more mature and honest sound than on any of his predecessors.
The title track is a great example of this. In ‘’Blue Sky Blue’’ he uses a soft guitar riff with his voice on full show. His lyrics of ‘’You say love’s gonna set me free, I’d move heaven and earth just to be, one step closer to your family tree, take my soul now as your guarantee’’ These lyrics demonstrate Murray’s nice song writing skills and shows his intention and skill of using emotive language in his songs. Also in the track is a consistent drum beat that allows a fuller sound to the track. A great start to the album.
The song that most demonstrates Murray’s catchiness is on the 4th track ‘’Free’’. The lead single of the record demonstrates one hell of a catchy chorus that made it an instant radio hit, while not the best on the album, the song displays the catchiness of Murray’s vocal delivery and lyrics. The track that takes us on the most unique journey is ‘’Let You Go’’ a superb song that once again showcases Murray’s great song writing skills along with a fantastic chorus. Although simplistic, its message is so evident that the song has special meaning to Murray. ‘’Because every word has been a moment in time. You're like a poem that's caught in my head. I curse the day when I'll see that lonely smile. But it's better than playin' pretend. And I know, yes I know. That I have to let you go just like l want you to say’’ This song demonstrates the best lyrics on the record, and is also the best song on the album.
The most upbeat song of the album is ‘’Broken’’ here we find a stronger drum beat and a nice guitar riff. Also evident is Murray’s great voice. His voice has a certain Aussie ruggedness to it that is totally unique. It’s a deep singing style, but most would find it refreshing and uplifting. Also a really nice guitar solo at the backend is a nice change. 3rd song ‘’Hurricane Coming’’ is the best instrumental song of the album with a very cool guitar riff and Murray’s best vocal performance of the album.
A criticism of Pete Murray could be a simplistic take on what others have previously done. Although some will hear too much simplicity, others will hear uniqueness in Murray’s voice and be willing to hear it for the entirety of the album. Another unique song is ‘’Led’’, here Murray seems to be writing for a special person in his life, this song allows us to connect with Murray on a deeper level ‘’ You've been my one true lifeline. Makes me wanna stay. You've put true faith in my mind. You stand me tall and safe. I want you here, in my life’’ With his emotive lyrics we connect on a personal level to the song, and we can attribute the lyrics to a person in our own lives. The instruments although simplistic add an atmosphere to each song. In album closer ‘’Hold It All For Love’’ a nice guitar riff and Murray’s good tone ends the album on a soft, dulcet tone, but he reflects on how love is such an important part of our lives. The song is a very appropriate ending to the record because of its combination of Murray’s ideals of love and freedom.
With his 4th record, Pete Murray has crafted a mature and honest album that clearly demonstrates his musical talent and his own personal direction in life and in his music. I highly recommend it to anyone seeking something different. Because that’s what Pete Murray is. Different.
